The U.S. Department of Justice has agreed to a $22.6 million settlement to resolve a class action lawsuit involving 34 women who claim they were wrongfully dismissed from the FBI’s agent training academy due to gender bias. The lawsuit, filed in 2019, accuses the FBI of a discriminatory pattern against female trainees.
Claims of Sex Discrimination at FBI Academy
The plaintiffs allege they were forced out of the FBI’s training academy, despite performing equally or better than their male counterparts in academic, fitness, and firearms tests. Many also reported experiencing sexual harassment and being subjected to sexist jokes and comments during their training.
The lawsuit, based on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits sex-based workplace discrimination, was supported by a 2022 report from the Justice Department’s internal watchdog. The report found that female trainees were more likely to be dismissed from the academy, often being labeled as “unsuitable” for the role of an agent.
Settlement Terms and Reforms
Under the proposed settlement, the Justice Department will pay $22.6 million to the 34 female plaintiffs. In addition to the payout, eligible women can seek reinstatement into the FBI’s agent training program. The FBI has also agreed to hire independent experts to review and ensure fairness in its trainee evaluation process.
Christine Webber, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, expressed optimism about the settlement, saying it reflects “a genuine desire by the FBI to move beyond its past history of discrimination.”
FBI Denies Wrongdoing
The FBI has denied any wrongdoing in the case but has not responded to requests for comment. The settlement must still be approved by a federal judge in Washington, D.C.
Gender Gap Among FBI Agents
As of April, less than one-quarter of FBI special agents were women, highlighting a persistent gender gap in the agency. The settlement aims to address these issues and create a more equitable environment for future trainees.
This settlement marks a significant step toward rectifying the alleged discrimination faced by female FBI trainees.